Nominations for year's best in pop culture

Last week I shared my nominations for the worst in media, pop culture, and politics for 2012, and now Iíd like to share what I think is the best of bunch.

Carole Moore

Last week I shared my nominations for the worst in media, pop culture, and politics for 2012, and now Iíd like to share what I think is the best of bunch. This is a lot more difficult a task, because, face it, thereís not as much thatís admirable in these categories, but here goes:

Best television commercial (which is kind of like designating the best type of root canal): Because Iím a little warped, I like the Clorox Bleach commercials that depict kids inspiring their parents to use bleach as a disinfectant. Second place is the cute pup in the Subaru commercial.

Best television personality: Jim Parsons of The Big Bang Theory. He deserves his accolades. Itís not everyday that someone can play such an annoying character and make him appealing. He does it well.

Best sports personality: I have to go with gymnast Gabby Douglas following her Olympic win. Sheís a family-oriented young woman who seems to be a great role model for young girls everywhere.

Best television show: Yeah, you know itís coming. The Big Bang Theory is about the funniest thing on TV. And if you get a chance, look up the vanity cards written by Chuck Lorre online. One of the creators of the shows, Lorreís ruminations are, by turn, thoughtful, hilarious and provocative. Iím also pretty crazy about Burn Notice, but thatís a different kind of show entirely.

Best pop-culture parents: Honestly, I canít think of any. People who exploit their kids for money are pretty detestable, in my opinion. Iím open to suggestions here.

Best political experience: The day after the presidential elections when I could stop hearing and thinking about it.

And the winner of the overall best well-known person of the year is: Gary Sinise, an actor who puts his actions where his heart is. Sinise has dedicated himself to making sure our U.S. Armed Forces know where he stands, and thatís firmly in their corner. Good for him. Heís a man cut from rare cloth.